Programmable devices, systems and methods for encouraging the monitoring of medical parameters

ABSTRACT

Programmable health monitoring devices, systems, and methods for the monitoring of medical parameters are disclosed. An illustrative health monitoring device can include reward circuitry including a reward algorithm or routine for encouraging the monitoring of medical parameters, and a communications interface for transmitting and/or receiving reward data and/or medical data back and forth between the health monitoring device and one or more other devices in communication with the health monitoring device. A display panel can be configured to display various medical and reward parameters, including the user&#39; current and/or past test readings as well as any rewards or incentives earned for complying with the one or more goals determined by the reward algorithm or routine. A user interface can be utilized to program various reward criteria and/or reward codes into the health monitoring device as well as perform other functions.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.60/754,399, filed on Dec. 29, 2005, and entitled “Programmable IncentiveMethods Based on Medical Parameters”.

FIELD

The present invention relates generally to the field of healthmonitoring. More specifically, the present invention pertains toprogrammable health monitoring devices, systems, and methods forencouraging the monitoring of medical parameters.

BACKGROUND

The impact of diabetes-related complications on the populationrepresents a significant portion of healthcare costs worldwide. In theUnited States alone, more than 18 million individuals suffer from thiscondition, representing approximately 6 percent of children and adults.Those that suffer from the condition are at a greater risk ofcardiovascular related diseases, and typically experience a greateroccurrence of amputation and loss of mobility compared to those withoutthe condition. Other physical and psychological factors have also beenattributed to diabetes. For example, individuals suffering from diabetesare often more at risk for depression and other behavioral problems.Despite advances in the field, diabetes still remains a significantproblem which is expected to rise as the population ages and as morechildren are diagnosed with an early-onset version of the disease.

Individuals suffering from medical conditions such as diabetes areconstantly required to monitor their blood sugar levels to ensurecompliance with one or more goals, often under a prescribed medical plandetermined by a physician or other healthcare provider. Diabeticpatients, for example, are typically required to test their bloodglucose levels four or more times per day to ensure that their bloodsugar levels are within an acceptable range. In addition to constantmonitoring, such individuals are often required to adapt a strict dietand exercise routine as well as undergo insulin therapy in order tomaintain their blood sugar levels at acceptable levels.

Blood glucose monitors are frequently employed by individuals sufferingfrom diabetes, hypoglycemia and other blood disorders to determine theamount of glucose contained in the blood stream. These meters typicallyfunction by pricking the user's skin with a lancet, and then placing asmall capillary blood sample onto a test strip which can then be used bythe monitor to sense the amount of glucose within the sample. Once asample is taken, the monitor then generates a glucose value which can bedisplayed on a display screen in a desired format (e.g. “mmol/L” or“mg/dL”) based on the user's preference. The readings outputted by thedevice can then be used by the individual to better manage theircondition and, if necessary, take corrective action.

The monitoring of medical parameters such as blood sugar is often atime-consuming and tedious task, requiring the individual to constantlycheck their condition to ensure that they are in compliance with thegoals of their prescribed medical plan. The desire to perform suchmonitoring is often counterbalanced or outweighed by the pain andinconvenience associated with such tests. For example, for diabetics whoare required to test their blood sugar levels multiple times throughoutthe day, the desire to perform such self-testing may be reduced by thepain associated with pricking their finger with a lancet. In some cases,psychological factors such as the individual's self-esteem or thepsychosocial stigma associated with performing self-tests in public mayalso affect the individual's desire to perform such monitoring. Thesephysical and mental hurdles are particularly acute in children, whofrequently experience diabetes burnout at an early age if notsufficiently motivated to continue with their testing regimen.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The present invention relates generally to programmable healthmonitoring devices, systems, and methods for encouraging the monitoringof medical parameters. An illustrative health monitoring device caninclude medical circuitry adapted to sense one or more medicalparameters such as blood glucose or blood pressure, and reward circuitryadapted to run a reward algorithm or routine for encouraging themonitoring of one or more medical parameters by the user. The rewardcircuitry can include a reward criteria database containing one or moreprogrammed goals associated with the user's medical condition. Duringuse, the reward algorithm or routine can be configured to formulate areward or incentive based on the user's compliance with the one or moregoals as determined by the reward criteria. A communications interfacecan be utilized to transmit and receive reward data and/or medical databack and forth between the health monitoring device and one or moreremote devices.

The health monitoring device can be equipped with a display panelincluding one or more display screens that can be used to displaymedical test data as well as various reward and motivation messages. Insome embodiments, the health monitoring device can further include oneor more light sources for providing the user with a visual indication oftheir compliance with the one or more goals determined by the rewardcriteria as well as any rewards or incentives that have or will beearned based on their compliance with those goals. Other statusindicators such as an audible alarm outputted by a speaker or tactilefeedback provided by a vibration element within the health monitoringdevice may also be provided to the user, if desired.

The health monitoring device can be used as part of a system forencouraging the monitoring of one or more medical parameters. In certainembodiments, for example, the health monitoring device can be connectedto at least one remote device via a wired or wireless communicationslink, allowing various medical and/or reward data to be transmitted backand forth between the health monitoring device and each remote device.In an on-line based system, the health monitoring device can beconnected to one or more web-sites and/or other remote devices via anInternet or intranet connection. Examples of remote devices that can beconnected to the health monitoring device can include the computersystem of a remote entity such as a pharmacy, medical supply store,health clinic, health club facility, or fitness center. The remotedevice can also include other monitoring devices such as blood pressuremonitors, blood oxygen monitors, and/or heart monitors as well as otherexternal devices such as personal computers, laptop computers, hand-heldcomputers, cellular telephones, pagers, television set or cable boxes,video game consoles, and/or digital media players.

An illustrative method of providing individuals with a reward orincentive for monitoring one or more medical parameters with the healthmonitoring device can include the steps of receiving reward criteriadata into the health monitoring device, comparing the reward criteriadata against one or more stored medical parameters sensed by the healthmonitoring device, determining whether one or more goals of the rewardcriteria data have been satisfied, prompting the user to redeem one ormore rewards or incentives based at least in part on their compliancewith the one or more goals, and then downloading the reward or incentiveinto the health monitoring device and/or transmitting the reward orincentive to one or more other devices.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a health monitoring device in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view showing several illustrative components ofthe health monitoring device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a schematic view showing the reward circuitry and medicalcircuitry for the health monitoring device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic view of an illustrative optical system formonitoring the illumination status of the LED's used by the healthmonitoring device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of an illustrative method of providing userswith a reward or incentive for monitoring one or more medical parametersusing a health monitoring device;

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an illustrative method of providing a rewardstatus indicator to a user using a health monitoring device;

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of an illustrative method of triggering areward or incentive using the internal clock circuitry of the healthmonitoring device;

FIGS. 8-10 are several perspective views of the health monitoring deviceof FIG. 1, showing the steps of providing a visual indicator to the userindicating that a reward or incentive has or will be earned;

FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic view showing an illustrative reward system forrewarding a user for monitoring one or more medical parameters using ahealth monitoring device;

FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic view showing an illustrative on-line rewardsystem for rewarding a user for monitoring one or more medicalparameters using a health monitoring device;

FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic view showing an illustrative implementation ofthe on-line reward system of FIG. 12; and

FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic view showing an illustrative vehicle rewardsystem for rewarding a driver for monitoring one or more medicalparameters using a health monitoring device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description should be read with reference to the drawings,in which like elements in different drawings are numbered in likefashion. The drawings depict several illustrative embodiments, and arenot intended to limit the scope of the invention. While the devices,systems, and methods are frequently described herein with respect tocontinuous blood glucose monitors, it should be understood that othermedical and non-medical devices can incorporate one or more of thefeatures described herein. Examples of other devices can include, butare not limited to, blood pressure monitors, blood oxygen monitors,heart monitors, spirometers, insulin pumps, pedometers, scales, shoes,exercise or fitness equipment, personal computers, laptop computers,hand-held computers, cellular telephones, pagers, television set orcable boxes, video game consoles, and digital media players.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a health monitoring device 10 in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment will now be described. Device 10,illustratively a blood glucose monitor for use by a diabetic orhypoglycemic user, can include a display panel 12 for displaying variousoperational status and monitoring information, and a user interface 14which can be used to enter, and in some cases program, various commandsinto the device 10. The display panel 12 and user interface 14 may beinset within a housing 16 of the device 10 having a port 18 adapted toreceive a test strip 20 containing a sample of blood obtained from theuser. Once inserted into the port 18, the test strip 20 can be used bythe device 10 to determine the user's current glucose levels, which canthen be outputted as a result (e.g. “105 mg/dL”) on a display screen 22,as shown.

The display panel 12 can include a liquid crystal display (LCD), lightemitting diode (LED) panel, touchscreen, or other suitable means fordisplaying information to the user. In some embodiments, the displaypanel 12 can be configured by the user interface 14 and/or remotely byan external computing device to display both text and graphicssimultaneously on the display screen 22. Alternatively, and in otherembodiments, the display panel 12 can be configured, either locallyand/or remotely, to display only text characters on the display screen22. While only a single display panel 12 is depicted in FIG. 1, itshould be understood that multiple display panels may be utilized todisplay information. For example, the monitoring device 10 can include afirst display panel for displaying one or more current and/or pastglucose test readings obtained from the user, and a second display panelfor displaying any accrued rewards or incentives the user has or willearn as a result of complying with the goals of their prescribed medicalplan, as discussed further herein.

The display panel 12 can be configured to provide other information tothe user, including a progression indicator 24 indicating the currentcharge-status of the batteries, a time indicator 26 indicating thecurrent time, and a date indicator 28 indicating the current date. Asecond progression indicator 30 can also be provided on the displayscreen 22 indicating when a reward or incentive has or will be earned.In those embodiments in which the monitoring device 10 is a wirelessdevice, a signal strength meter 32 may display the signal strength ofthe wireless connection between the monitoring device 10 and anotherremote device.

The user interface 14 can include a number of keys, buttons, dialsand/or other means for inputting, and in some cases programming, variouscommands into the monitoring device 10. A first set of buttons 34,36,for example, can be utilized to set the current display mode to causethe display panel 12 to switch back and forth between a number ofdifferent display screens. Selection of button 34, for example, cancause the monitoring device 10 to switch between a display screen whichshows the user's most recent glucose reading(s), a display screen whichshows one or more previously stored glucose readings or an averagedglucose reading, and a display screen that can be used to show anyaccrued rewards or incentives earned and/or other useful informationpertinent to the user's medical condition. Selection of button 36, inturn, can cause the monitoring device 10 to toggle the format in whichthe device 10 displays glucose level readings. For example, selection ofbutton 36 can cause the monitoring device 10 to toggle between thedisplay of glucose level readings between a “mmol/L” format and a“mg/dL” format.

A circle-wheel button 38 can be further provided to permit the user toaccess other display screens and/or functionality within the monitoringdevice 10 or an external computing device, including a setup screen thatcan be used to set the current date and time, to clear any previouslystored glucose level readings sensed by the device 10 and/or to setvarious interface parameters used by the device 10 to communicate withother devices. The circle-wheel button 38 can also be utilized to accessother functionality including a communications screen that can be usedto view and/or send messages and other data back and forth between themonitoring device 10 and another remote device.

The monitoring device 10 can be further equipped with a speaker 40 thatcan be used to prompt the user to perform certain tasks as well as toaurally provide the user with information regarding their current healthstatus. The speaker 40, for example, can be configured to produce anaudible alarm tone reminding the user to take a new glucose levelreading, informing the user that a new reward or incentive has beenearned, and/or prompting the user to perform some other task such astransmitting data to another device. Other audible alarm tones may alsobe provided warning the user that the battery level is low or alertingthe user that a message has been received and is ready for viewing. Insome embodiments, the speaker 40 can be used to output voice messagesreceived by the device 10. For example, the speaker 40 can be used tooutput MP3, WAV, or other such audio files received by the user'scaregiver or physician educating the user about their current healthstatus, and to provide motivational messages to encourage the user'scompliance with their prescribed medical plan.

The pitch and/or volume of the alarm tones can be varied to notify theuser of the importance to take action, or to differentiate between typesof alerts. For example, the device 10 can be configured to output anaudible alarm tone at a first pitch prompting the user to take a glucoselevel reading, and another alarm tone at a second, discemable pitchinforming the user that a message and/or new reward code is availablefor viewing. The loudness of the alarm tones may vary depending on theurgency in which action must be taken. For example, the loudness of thealarm tone outputted by the speaker 40 can be increased as the time fromthe user's last glucose level reading increases, thus providing the userwith feedback of the urgency to take a new measurement. The time betweenthe alarm tones can also be increased, informing the user of the urgencyto take action. In some embodiments, the monitoring device 10 can befurther equipped with an internal vibration element that can be used toprovide the user with tactile feedback of the urgency to takemeasurements.

A number of light sources (e.g. LED's) inset within the housing 16 canbe used to provide the user with status information on their compliancewith the programmed goals of their prescribed medical plan as well asinformation on whether any rewards or incentives have or will be earned.A first array 42 of LED's within the housing 16, for example, canprovide the user with visual feedback on the user's compliance withtheir blood glucose monitoring. The array 42 of LED's can be arranged ina format that can be quickly and easily understood by the user. In theillustrative embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, for example, the array 42 ofLED's can include three separate LED's 44,46,48 arranged in a stop-lightconfiguration, with the illumination of a green LED 44 used to indicatefull compliance, a yellow LED 46 used to indicate that action may beneeded, and a red LED 48 used to indicate that prompt action isnecessary. The illumination of the green LED 44 may indicate, forexample, a blood glucose level of between 80-90 mg/dL whereas theillumination of the yellow and red LED's 46,48 may indicate bloodglucose levels of between 90-100 and 101+, respectively. Other lightconfigurations can also be utilized to provide the user with a visualindicator of their compliance. In certain embodiments, the monitoringdevice 10 can be programmed to assign specific ranges to one or more ofthe LED's 44,46,48. If, for example, the user desires to assign aglucose range different than the default range pre-programmed within themonitoring device 10, the user may select the appropriate button orbuttons on the user interface 14 to adjust the range.

A second array 50 of LED's can be provided to alert the user of anyunused rewards or incentives that have or will be earned as a result ofcompliance with the goals of the user's prescribed medical plan. Thesecond array 50 of LED's can include, for example, a first LED 52 forinforming the patient whether they have any rewards which have not beenclaimed, and a second LED 54 that can be used to inform the user whethera reward or incentive is forthcoming. The first LED 52, for example, canbe illuminated when the user has received a new reward code as a resultof successfully monitoring their blood glucose levels for apre-determined period of time. The second LED 54, in turn, can beilluminated when a new reward or incentive is impending based on theuser's compliance with various reward criteria programmed within themonitoring device 10.

The appearance and/or blink rate of the LED's 52,54 can be altered tofurther indicate the status of any rewards or incentives earned. Forexample, the first LED 52 can be configured to output a first color(e.g. green) indicating that a reward code or incentive has been earnedwhereas the LED 52 can be configured to output a different color (e.g.red) indicating that a reward or incentive has not been earned.Alternatively, and in other embodiments, the blink rate of the LED 52may be adjusted depending on the number of unused reward codes orincentives that have been earned. For example, the LED 52 may blink onceindicating that one unused reward code or incentive has been earned,twice indicating that two unused reward codes or incentives have beenearned, and so forth. The appearance and/or blink rate of the second LED54 can be similarly adjusted to provide the user with an indication ofwhen an upcoming reward or incentive will be earned. For example, theblink rate of the second LED 54 can be made proportional to the timeremaining for the next reward or incentive to be earned.

An external communications port 55 can be utilized to connect themonitoring device 10 to an external computing device such as a personalcomputer, laptop computer, hand-held computer, cellular telephone videogame console, or digital media player. In certain embodiments, forexample, the external communications port 55 may be utilized to connectthe monitoring device 10 to another monitoring device such as a bloodpressure monitor, allowing the user to transmit and/or receive data backand forth between the two monitoring devices. In some cases, theexternal communications port 55 may permit other devices such as aprinter to be connected to the monitoring device 10, if desired.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view showing several components of the healthmonitoring device 10 of FIG. 1. As can be seen in FIG. 2, the monitoringdevice 10 can include reward circuitry 56 electrically connected to anumber of other components located on a circuit board 58 within thedevice housing 16. An internal clock circuit 60 can used to maintain thecurrent time and date as well as for timing the duration between glucoselevel readings. The clock circuit 60 can be configured to provide a dateand time stamp for each glucose level reading, which can be stored alongwith the reading within a storage memory 62 such as a RAM, EEPROM, orflash memory. In use, the clock circuit 60 can be used determine thetype and/or frequency of rewards or incentives provided to the user. Forexample, the clock circuit 60 can be used to produce a particular rewardon the user's birthday or if the user promptly performed a reading everyfour hours as required by their prescribed medical plan.

An external clock interface 64 can be used to synch the time and/or dateof the monitoring device 10 with another external timing device 66, ifdesired. For example, in some embodiments the external clock interface64 can be used to synch the monitoring device 10 with the timer ofanother monitoring device such as a heart monitor, blood pressuremonitor, blood oxygen monitor, spirometer, or insulin pump. In somecases, the external clock interface 64 can be used to obtain the timeand date automatically from a remote source such as from a radio signal.

The external clock data received via the external clock interface 64 canbe compared against the time and date maintained by the internal clockcircuit 60 to determine the user's behavioral compliance patterns fortheir prescribed medical plan. In some embodiments, for example, theexternal clock data can be used to determine trends associated with theuser's monitoring of their medical parameters. If, for example, the useris habitually late in performing their testing regimen at a particulartime of the day such as in the evening, the external clock data can becompared against the date and time stamps associated with their pastreadings to determine an alternative time to perform such tests.

A battery level circuit 68 can be used to monitor the level of thebatteries used to power the monitoring device 10. The battery levelcircuit 68, for example, can measure the charge of the batteries andoutput a message or status indicator (e.g. via the progression indicator24 on the display screen 22) notifying the user that the batteries arelow and require replacement or recharging. In some embodiments, thebattery level circuit 68 may further output a message or statusindicator informing the user that the batteries are being recharged whenrechargeable batteries are used.

A GPS circuit 70 can be configured to receive a global positioningsignal (GPS) that can be used to track the location of the monitoringdevice 10. In some embodiments, for example, the GPS circuit 70 can beused to monitor whether the user is out of range from receivinghealthcare from their healthcare provider, or is located near a storewhere medical supplies can be purchased. For example, the signalsreceived by the GPS circuit 70 can be utilized in conjunction withmapping software and/or hardware to provide the user with directions tothe closest medical supply store for purchasing needed supplies. In somecases, the GPS circuit 70 can be used to notify the user where to redeema reward or incentive that has been earned as a result of theircompliance with the goals of their prescribed medical plan.

An external programming interface 72 can be used to connect themonitoring device 10 to an external user interface 74 to permit the userto interact with, and in some cases program, the device 10 from a remotelocation and/or via another device. For example, in some embodiments theexternal programming interface 72 can be used to program the monitoringdevice 10 from a keyboard, keypad, or other suitable means for inputtingdata to the device 10. In some cases, the external programming interface72 may permit reward codes to be programmed into the device 10 by themanufacturer of the device 10, or by the user's healthcare provider,insurance provider, or caregiver. The external programming interface 72may permit either wired or wireless transmission of programming data viaeither a bidirectional or asynchronous port.

The monitoring device 10 can further include a communications interface76 that can be used to transmit and receive various commands and databack and forth between one or more external devices 78,80,82 incommunication with the device 10. Examples of external devices that canbe connected to the monitoring device 10 via the communicationsinterface 76 can include, but are not limited to, personal computers,laptop computers, hand-held computers (e.g. PDA, BLUETOOTH, PALM-PILOT),cellular telephones, pagers, television set or cable boxes, video gameconsoles, digital media players (e.g. IPOD, MP3 or MPEG players), pointof sale devices, bar code readers, and vehicle controllers. Otherhealthcare devices such as blood pressure monitors, blood oxygenmonitors, heart monitors, spirometers, insulin pumps, and pedometers canalso be connected to the monitoring device 10 via the communicationsinterface 76, if desired. In some cases, the communications interface 76may permit other devices such as a printer to be connected to themonitoring device 10, allowing test data and reward information to beprinted.

Connection between the communications interface 76 and the externaldevices 78,80,82 can be accomplished via a wired communications linksuch a USB cable, IEEE394 cable, Ethernet cable, serial (e.g. RS232)cable, parallel cable, or optical cable. Connection to the externaldevices 78,80,82 can also be accomplished with a wireless communicationslink such as via an RF signal (e.g. 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g,Bluetooth, Zigbee, etc.) or infrared signal (e.g. MRDA). In someembodiments, connection to one or more of the external devices 78,80,82can be accomplished via the Internet through a dial-up connection, DSLconnection, cable broadband connection, or the like. A converter module84 can be used to convert and, in some cases encrypt, data sent back andforth over the connection lines. For example, the converter module 84can be used to convert glucose level readings into a different and moresecure format that can then be transmitted and deciphered by anotherdevice in communication with the monitoring device 10.

The reward circuitry 56 can be configured to run one or more rewardalgorithm or routines 86 that can be used to monitor the user's progressin monitoring their glucose levels and formulate rewards or incentivesbased on the user's compliance with reward criteria programmed withinthe monitoring device 10. As can be further seen in FIG. 3, the rewardcircuitry 56 can include a reward code database 88 such as a look-uptable containing one or more reward codes that can be provided when theuser satisfies one or more reward criteria from a reward criteriadatabase 90. For example, for diabetic users, the reward circuitry 56can be internally or externally configured to provide the user with oneor more reward codes when the user successfully completes a series ofglucose level readings on-time, when the user's glucose levels aremaintained within a certain range for a period of time, or other suchgoal. The reward codes contained within the reward code database 88 canbe provided as bar codes, alpha numeric characters, hexadecimalcharacters, or other type of encrypted code. In use, the rewardalgorithm or routine 86 can be configured to perform variouscomputational functions to determine whether the user's monitoring ofone or more medical parameters satisfies the reward criteria programmedwithin the database 90.

The reward circuitry 56 can further include a motivational messagesdatabase 92 containing a number of motivational messages that can beused to encourage patient compliance with the goals of their prescribedmedical plan. In certain embodiments, for example, the reward circuitry56 can be configured to generate motivational messages triggered basedon the user's compliance with the reward criteria, which can then bedisplayed on the display screen as a text message and/or graphic oroutputted from the speaker as an audible message. The reward circuitry56 can be configured to output motivational messages at certain times ofthe day and/or in response to the user's behavioral patterns. Forexample, if the reward circuitry 56 determines that the user is one hourpast due in taking a glucose level reading, the reward circuitry 56 maydisplay one or more motivational messages on the display screenencouraging the user to take a measurement.

Other types of messages may also be stored within the database 92, whichcan then be provided based on the user's compliance with the rewardcriteria, the user's personal information, as well as other factors. Forexample, and in some embodiments, the database 92 may also containpromotional advertising messages or special offers that can be providedto the user based on criteria programmed within the monitoring device 10and/or criteria provided by another external computing device incommunication with the monitoring device 10. In one illustrativeembodiment, advertising messages may be pre-programmed within themonitoring device relating to a particular retailer's products. Inexchange for such advertising, the retailer can be assessed asponsorship fee.

The reward circuitry 56 can be optically isolated from the medicalcircuitry 94 or can be formed integrally therewith. During operation,the medical circuitry 94 can be configured to transmit medical data tothe reward circuitry 56 via a communications link 96, which can then bereceived and stored within the memory along with a date and time stampcorresponding to the date and time the measurements were taken. Thereward circuitry 56 containing the reward codes, reward criteria, andmotivational messages can be implemented as either hardware and/orsoftware, and can be programmed via the on-board user interface, theexternal user interface, an external device such as a computer, and/orvia the Internet. In some embodiments, the reward codes, rewardcriteria, promotional and motivational messages can be pre-programmed atthe factory, at a servicing kiosk, or other such location. Programmingof the reward codes, reward criteria, and motivational messages can beaccomplished via a wireless or wired connection, remotely or locally, bysetting a dip switch, or by other means.

In some embodiments, the reward circuitry 56 can be configured toconvert reward codes to another format. For example, the rewardcircuitry 56 can be configured to take reward codes provided as analphanumeric message and convert that message into another electronicformat such as an audible message, a printer file, etc. Conversion ofthe reward codes can be accomplished, for example, using the convertermodule 84 described above with respect to FIG. 2, although other meansfor converting the codes are possible. In some cases, the rewardcircuitry 56 may permit multiple reward codes to be combined togetherfor redemption, if desired.

FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic view of an illustrative optical system 98 forself-checking the illumination status of the LED's used by the healthmonitoring device 10. As shown in FIG. 4, the monitoring device 10 mayfurther include a separate controller 100, or multiple controllers, incommunication with each of the LED's 44,46,48. The controller 100, maycomprise, for example, a part of the reward circuitry 56 or medicalcircuitry 94 adapted to send signals to each of the LED's 44,46,48,causing them to illuminate in a desired manner based on computationsmade by the reward algorithm or routine 86.

To provide a level or redundancy to the system 98 in the event one ormore of the LED's 44,46,48 burns out or otherwise becomes inoperable, anoptical detector 102,104,106 located adjacent to each LED 44,46,48 canbe configured to send a signal back to the controller 100 informing thecontroller 100 of the illumination status of each of the LED's 44,46,48.For example, the optical detectors 102,104,106 may send signals back tothe controller 100 indicating whether the LED's 44,46,48 are currentlyilluminated when activated. In some embodiments, the optical detectors102,104,106 can be configured to sense other information such as thewavelength of light outputted by the LED's 44,46,48 to determine whetherthe LED's 44,46,48 are functioning properly. The optical detectors102,104,106 can be separate components from the LED's 44,46,48, or canbe formed integrally with the LED's 44,46,48. Although optical detectors102,104,106 can be utilized to sense whether the LED's 44,46,48 arefunctioning properly, it should be understood that other suitable meansfor checking the operational status of the LED's 44,46,48 may also beemployed, if desired.

The comparison of the illumination status of the LED's 44,46,48 can beaccomplished using a single controller or multiple controllers. Whenmultiple controllers are employed, the monitoring information obtainedby each controller can be compared against each other to determinewhether the LED's are not functioning properly. If the status of theLED's is the same, an acceptable monitoring condition exists. When asingle controller is employed, four inputs can be provided to thecontroller for each LED and corresponding sensor. For example, a firstinput pin of the controller can receive a first set of inputs from theLED and sensor whereas a second input pin of the controller can receivea second set of inputs from the LED and sensor. The controller can thencompare the first set of inputs against the second set of inputs todetermine whether an acceptable monitoring condition exists.

Referring now to FIG. 5, an illustrative method 108 of providing userswith a reward or incentive for monitoring one or more medical parametersusing a health monitoring device will now be described. The method maybegin generally at block 110, with the step of obtaining reward datafrom an external source. Step 110 may include, for example, the processof downloading reward criteria data and/or one or more reward codes froma web-site or from another external device in communication with themonitoring device. In those embodiments in which the monitoring deviceis a blood glucose monitor, for example, the reward criteria may includeone or more goals associated with the user's prescribed medical plansuch as the lowering of blood pressure, increasing exercise levels,lowering blood sugar levels, etc. The reward data can further includeone or more reward codes that can be used to reward the user for takinga number of glucose level readings within a certain period of timeand/or for maintaining their glucose levels within a certain range. Thereward criteria and reward codes will typically vary depending on thepatient's particular medical condition, the type of monitoring device,the patient's gender and age, as well as other factors.

Once the monitoring device has obtained the reward criteria data at step110, the monitoring device may next compare the reward criteria dataagainst historical monitoring data previously obtained by the device, asindicated generally by block 112. In certain embodiments, for example,the comparison step 112 can include the step of comparing a glucosemonitoring schedule containing the times and dates in which glucoselevels are to be checked against one or more previously obtained glucoselevel readings stored within memory. Such step may be performed, forexample, by the reward circuitry and/or from an external device incommunication with the monitoring device. A date and time stamp may beprovided in conjunction with the user's previously stored test data inorder to compare the reward criteria with the actual measurements. Thedate and time stamp can be provided, for example, by the monitoringdevices' internal clock or via an external source. In use, the internalor external clock can be used by the reward circuitry to determine theproper time to release the reward codes.

If at decision block 114 the reward circuitry determines that at leastone goal of the reward criteria has been met, the monitoring device canbe configured to provide the user with a reward indicator informing theuser that a reward or incentive has been earned, as indicated generallyby block 116. For example, if the user successfully maintains theirglucose levels within a certain range for a predetermined period of timesuch as a week, the monitoring device can be configured to output areward indicator 116 informing the user that they have achieved one oftheir goals. The reward indicator provided at step 116 may be in theform of a visual alert provided on the display screen of the monitoringdevice and/or an audible alert outputted by the speaker informing theuser that they have earned a reward or incentive. In some embodiments,the visual alert may also be presented on the display screen of anexternal computing device. Tactile feedback (e.g. produced by aninternal vibration element within the monitoring device) may also beprovided notifying the user that a reward or incentive has been earned.An illustrative method of providing a visual alert to a user uponreceiving a reward or incentive is described herein with respect toFIGS. 8-10.

If at decision block 114 the reward circuitry determines that the userhas not successfully satisfied the reward criteria, the monitoringdevice may continue the step 112 of comparing the reward data againstthe user's historical data until the user satisfies one of the goalsfrom the reward criteria, as indicated generally by arrow 118.

Once the user is notified of an earned reward, the monitoring device mayfurther prompt the user to redeem the reward or incentive, as furtherindicated generally by block 120. For example, the monitoring device mayoutput a message on the display screen informing the user that a rewardhas been earned along with instructions on how to redeem that reward.Once prompted, the user may then follow the instructions on the displayscreen, causing the monitoring device to connect to an external device,if necessary, in order to download a reward code, as indicated generallyby block 122. For example, if at step 120 the monitoring device providesa URL address in which to redeem an earned reward, the user may thenvisit the web-site using either the monitoring device or some otherexternal device in order to redeem the reward or incentive. As indicatedgenerally by block 124, the user may then download the reward orincentive into the monitoring device and/or transmit the reward orincentive to another device. For example, the reward or incentive may beoutputted to the display screen of a personal computer or hand-heldcomputer as a pop-up advertisement. In some cases, the monitoring devicemay also track the time in which the reward was downloaded and/orredeemed.

Once the user has redeemed the reward or incentive, the monitoringdevice may then prompt the user to clear that reward or incentive frommemory, as indicated generally by block 126. For example, and in someembodiments, the reward or incentive can be cleared manually byselecting one or more buttons on the user interface or by removing thebatteries. In other embodiments, the internal clock within themonitoring device may be used to automatically determine when a rewardor incentive is to be cleared. For example, the monitoring device mayautomatically delete the reward code after a certain period of time(e.g. one week) has elapsed, or when the reward code has been redeemed.The reward data can then erased from memory, as indicated generally byblock 128.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an illustrative method 130 of providing areward status indicator to a user using a health monitoring device.Method 130 may represent, for example, several illustrative steps to beperformed in conjunction with block 116 described above with respect toFIG. 5. As shown in FIG. 6, the method 130 may begin generally at block132 when the reward circuitry for the monitoring device determines thata reward or incentive has been earned by the user. Determination that areward has been earned can be accomplished, for example, in a mannersimilar to that described above with respect to blocks 112 and 114 inFIG. 5, wherein the monitoring device compares the reward criteria dataobtained from an external source and stored or from predetermined rewardcriteria stored within the monitoring device and then compares that dataagainst historical monitoring data obtained by the device.

Once the monitoring device determines that one or more goals from thereward criteria have been met, the device can be configured to output avisual indicator notifying the user that a reward or incentive has beenearned, as indicated generally by block 134. For example, at block 134the monitoring device may provide a text message on the display screenof the monitoring device indicating that a reward or incentive has beenearned. In some embodiments, for example, the monitoring device mayalternate between displaying the user's most recent glucose level on thescreen with a text message stating that a reward or incentive has orwill be earned. In addition, one or more light sources may beilluminated on the monitoring device informing the user that the rewardor incentive has or will be earned. For example, with respect to theillustrative monitoring device 10 described above with respect to FIG.1, the LED's 52,54 may illuminate or change color in a particular mannernotifying the user that a reward or incentive has been earned or isabout to be earned.

As further indicated generally by block 136, the monitoring device mayfurther output an audible alert or audible message informing the userthat a reward or incentive has been earned. In certain embodiments, forexample, the monitoring device may output an audible beep or tone fromthe speaker that can be distinguished from other alarm tones outputtedby the device. A computer-simulated voice may further notify the userthat a reward has been earned along with instructions on how to redeemthat reward.

Other means for notifying the user that a reward or incentive has beenearned may also be provided by the monitoring device. For example, andas indicated generally by block 138, the monitoring device can beconfigured to vibrate for a period of time, providing the user withtactile feedback that a reward or incentive has been earned. Themonitoring device can also be configured to send an email message orinstant message to another external device such as a computer orcellular telephone, as indicated generally by block 140. For example,the communications interface for the monitoring device can be used tosend an email to user-specified email address and/or an SMS message tothe user's cell phone, allowing the user to view, and in some casesredeem, the earned reward or incentive via the Internet or through theuser's cell phone service provider.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of an illustrative method 142 of triggering areward or incentive using the internal clock circuitry of the healthmonitoring device. The method 142 may begin generally at block 144, inwhich the monitoring device receives on or more test results from theuser. Block 144 may represent, for example, the step of obtaining one ormore glucose level readings by inserting test strips into the monitoringdevice, or the step of taking one or more blood pressure readings usinga blood pressure cuff. The test results received at block 144 willtypically vary, however, depending on the type of monitoring deviceemployed.

As each test reading is received and processed by the monitoring device,a date and time stamp corresponding to each test result can betransmitted to the medical circuitry and stored along with the medicaldata corresponding to each test reading, as indicated generally by block146. The medical circuit may then send the date and time information forone or more of the test results back to the reward circuitry, asindicated generally by block 148. The reward circuitry may then storethe date and time data for each test result into memory, as indicatedgenerally by block 150.

At decision block 152, the reward circuitry may then determine whetherthe date and time data is accurate. Determination of the accuracy of thedate and time data can be accomplished, for example, by comparing thedate and time data of the actual test results with an external clocksource used to synch the internal clock. If at block 152, the rewardcircuitry determines that the date and time stamps are not accurate, thereward circuitry may then reset the date and time data, as indicatedgenerally by block 160. The process of receiving user input at block 144can then be repeated, as indicated generally by arrow 156. If atdecision block 152, however, the reward circuitry determines that thedate and time data is accurate, the monitoring device can be configuredto initiate the reward algorithm, as indicated generally by block 158.The monitoring device may then issue one or more rewards based on thereward criteria programmed within the reward criteria database, asindicated generally by block 160. The method 142 can then be repeatedone or more times as each new test result is obtained.

FIGS. 8-10 are several perspective views of the monitoring device 10 ofFIG. 1, showing several illustrative steps of providing a visualindicator to a user indicating that a reward or incentive has beenearned. As can be seen in a first view in FIG. 8, the monitoring device10 can be configured to blink a reward status indicator 162 on thedisplay screen 22 when a reward or incentive has been earned, informingthe user that a reward or incentive is available. Other means forproving the user with reward status information may also be provided asdiscussed herein, including the illumination of the LED's 52,54, theproviding of an audible alert via the speaker 40 and/or the simultaneousdisplay on a display screen of an external computing device.

From the main screen depicted generally in FIG. 8, the user may thenaccess a separate reward screen 164 providing the user with moreinformation about the reward or incentive. For example, and as shown ina second view depicted in FIG. 9, the monitoring device may provide alist 166 of reward codes (e.g. “0012”, “0101”, etc.) for each rewardearned, a message 168 indicating whether the user is currently incompliance with their prescribed medical plan, and a message 170indicating whether the reward code or codes have been redeemed. Otherinformation such as the current time and date may be further provided onthe reward screen 164, if desired. Access to the reward screen 164 canbe accomplished by selecting one or more buttons on the user interface14 and/or remotely via an external computing device. Alternatively, andin other embodiments, the monitoring device 10 can be configured toautomatically alternate between displaying the main display screen 22and the reward screen 164, if desired.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a motivational message 172displayed on a separate motivational display screen 174 of themonitoring device 10. As shown in FIG. 10, the monitoring device 10 canbe configured to display one or more motivational messages 172 on thedisplay screen 174 to encourage the user to comply with the goals oftheir medical plan. The motivational messages 172 can be downloaded intothe monitoring device 10 from another external device, via a web-site onthe Internet, or can be pre-programmed into the device 10.

FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic view showing an illustrative reward system 176for rewarding a user 178 of the health monitoring device 10 formonitoring one or more medical parameters. As shown in FIG. 11, themonitoring device 10 can be configured to transmit compliance data 180such as the user's prior test readings to the computer system of one ormore remote entities 182. An illustrative entity 182 may comprise, forexample, a pharmacy, health-clinic, or other such business entitythrough which the user 178 normally purchases medical supplies such asinsulin pumps, syringes, and test strips. Examples of other entities 182can include, but are not limited to, insurance companies, self-insuredemployers, retailers, health-clubs, and fitness centers. The type ofentity 182 will typically vary depending on the specific medicalcondition of the user 178 as well as the type of monitoring device 10employed. For example, for individuals suffering from high bloodpressure, the participating entity 182 may be a health club facility andthe monitoring device 10 may be a blood pressure monitor.

The transmission of compliance data 180 to the participating entity 182can occur via either a wireless or wired connection, and may varydepending on the type of remote entity 182 involved. For example, for abusiness such as a pharmacy or health-clinic, the transmission ofcompliance data 180 may occur automatically when the user enters thestore or clinic, at regular intervals (e.g. once a day, once a week,once a month, etc.), when a reward or incentive has been earned, or someother desired criteria. The compliance data 180 can also be sentmanually by the selection of a button or buttons on the monitoringdevice 10, or by some other deliberate action taken by the user. In somecases, the user may charge the entity 182 for the use of the compliancedata 180.

In some embodiments, the compliance data 180 sent to the remote entity182 may be converted to another format, if desired. For example, thecompliance data 180 may be converted to a multimedia format such as MP3,MPEG, WAV, etc., and can be encrypted to prevent its interception from athird party.

The compliance data 180 transmitted to the remote entity 182 can bestored within a reward library database 184, which can then be used togenerate one or more rewards or incentives based on the user' compliancewith the entities' reward criteria, based on customer loyalty and/orpatronage, as well as other factors. If, for example, the remote entity182 is a medical supply store such as a pharmacy, the compliance data180 transmitted can be used to generate rewards or incentives in theform of discount coupons for the purchase of medical supplies such asinsulin pumps, syringes, test strips, etc. Other rewards or incentivessuch as cash-back rebates or credits may also be provided based on theuser's compliance with the reward criteria established by the entity182. For example, the reward or incentive may be in the form of discountcoupons for diabetic test strips based on the user's glucose levelreadings. In some embodiments, rewards or incentives unrelated to theuser's health may also be offered to the user 178. For example, thereward or incentive may be in the form of an access code that permitsthe user/customer to gain access to games, activities, or other suchincentives on the remote entity's web-site.

The rewards or incentives generated by the remote entity 182 can betransmitted back to the user's monitoring device 10 and redeemed in amanner similar to that discussed above with respect to FIG. 5. Asindicated generally by arrow 186, for example, the participating entity182 may transmit a reward code or coupon to the user's monitoring device10, which can then be redeemed at a later time at the remote entity 182,at another store, on a web-site, and/or at some other location. Rewardsor incentives generated by the participating entity 182 may also betransmitted to another location for redemption. For example, the rewardor incentive may be transmitted to a cash register within the entity'sstore that can be redeemed automatically at the point of sale, or to aweb-site that can be later accessed by the user to obtain an on-linediscount or other such incentive. In use, reward codes provided to themonitoring device 10 can be used as part of the remote entity's businessplan to achieve customer retention and increase customer loyalty.

The remote entity 182 may further transmit one or more advertisements tothe user's monitoring device 10, as indicated generally by arrow 188,informing the user 178 of any specials, price reductions, bulkdiscounts, and/or new products that may be available for purchase. Theadvertisements 188 can be targeted based on the user's specific medicalcondition, or can be provided to a larger subset of the population. Forexample, targeted advertisements can be provided to diabetics informingthem of certain diabetic products that are on sale and/or any newproducts that may be of interest. For individuals suffering from asthma,the advertisements may correspond to other related products such asallergy relief medicines and/or air filtration products. In some cases,the advertisements 188 provided to the user may be based on the user'scompliance data 180.

FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic view showing an illustrative on-line rewardsystem 190 for rewarding a user 192 of the health monitoring device 10for monitoring one or more medical parameters. As shown in FIG. 12, themonitoring device 10 can be connected to one or more on-line componentsvia an Internet or intranet connection 194, including one or more remoteentity websites 196 each having a reward library database 198 that canbe accessed by the user 192 to obtain various product and storeinformation, advertisements, discount coupons, as well as otherinformation. An example remote website 196 may comprise, for example, anon-line pharmacy or medical supply store having a specialized rewardsweb-page that can be accessed by the user to view and/or redeem one ormore earned rewards or incentives. The monitoring device 10 may befurther linked to one or more other web-sites 200 each including storage202 for storing information about the user's compliance with theirprescribed medical plan, any past rewards or incentives that have beenreceived, the anticipated time when another reward or incentive will bereceived, customer identifying information, as well as otherinformation. In certain embodiments, for example, one of the otherweb-sites 200 may comprise the user's own personal web-site or theweb-site of their healthcare provider or health insurance provider.

As can be further seen in FIG. 12, one or more other monitoring devices204 and/or other external devices 206 can also be linked to themonitoring device 10 as well as the remote entity websites 196 and otherweb-sites 200 via the Internet or an intranet connection 194. Othermonitoring devices 204 that can be connected can include, but are notlimited to, blood pressure meters, blood oxygen monitors, insulin pumps,continuous glucose monitors, prosthetic devices, shoes, scales,pedometers, exercise equipment, heart monitors, and spirometers. Otherexternal devices 206 that can be connected can include, but are notlimited to, personal computers, laptop computers, hand-held computers,cellular telephones, pagers, television set or cable boxes, video gameconsoles, and digital media players. In one illustrative embodiment, forexample, a television or cable set box can be connected to themonitoring device 10 via the Internet 194, allowing the user 192 totransmit and receive data and messages back and forth between themonitoring device 10 and one or more of the other components196,200,204,206.

FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic view showing an illustrative implementation ofthe on-line reward system 190 of FIG. 12. As shown in FIG. 13, themonitoring device 10 can be connected to one or more retail web-sites208 each including a reward library database 210 that can be accessed bythe user 192 to obtain various product and store information,advertisements, discount coupons, as well as other information. Themonitoring device 10 can also be connected to one or more financialinstitution web-sites 212 each including a reward library database 214.An example financial institution web-site may include a credit cardcompany or bank in which the user 192 conducts business with. Based onthe user' compliance with the reward criteria within the reward librarydatabase 214, the credit card company or bank may provide the user witha reward or incentive such as a credit or rebate to their account.

The monitoring device 10 can also be connected to one or more insuranceweb-sites 216 each including a reward library database 218. In certainembodiments, for example, insurance web-sites 216 may include theweb-site of the use's heath insurance provider. Based on the user'scompliance with the reward criteria within the reward library database218, the insurance provider may then provide the user with a reward orincentive such as a reduction in health insurance premiums or co-pays.In similar fashion, the monitoring device 10 can be connected to one ormore health/fitness club web-sites each including a reward librarydatabase 222. Based on the user's compliance with the reward criteriawithin the reward library database 222, the health/fitness club mayprovide the user with a reward or incentive such as the reduction inmembership fees. As further shown in FIG. 13, the monitoring device 10can be connected to one or more other devices including, but not limitedto, a cellular telephone 224, personal computer 226, blood pressuremonitor 228 and/or a cable/television set box 230.

FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic view showing an illustrative vehicle rewardsystem 232 for rewarding a driver 234 that uses the monitoring device 10for monitoring one or more medical parameters. As shown in FIG. 14, themonitoring device 10 can be configured to transmit compliance data 236to a vehicle controller 238 of a vehicle 240, which can be used by thecontroller 238 to decide whether to permit the driver 234 to start thevehicle 240 based on the driver's current medical condition and/or thetime or times of their most recent readings. For diabetic patients, forexample, the monitoring device 10 can be configured to transmit the lastfew glucose level readings to the vehicle controller 238, which can thenbe used by the controller 238 to determine whether to activate thevehicle's ignition system 242 and/or steering column lock 248 based onthe compliance data 236 received from the monitoring device 10. If, forexample, the drivers' glucose level is determined to be too high (e.g.above 101), the vehicle controller 238 can be configured to deactivatethe vehicle ignition system 242 and/or steering column lock 248,preventing the driver 234 from operating the vehicle 240 until theirlevels are brought within a certain range. In such event, the vehiclecontroller 238 may transmit a message 237 back to the monitoring device10 and/or some other display screen such as one found on a navigationalsystem notifying the driver 234 that their current glucose levels aretoo high to permit the safe operation of the vehicle 240. The monitoringdevice 10 can then prompt the driver 234 to take another measurementprior to operating the vehicle 240.

The compliance data 236 received by the vehicle controller 238 can alsobe outputted to other components of the vehicle 240. For example, and asfurther shown in FIG. 14, the vehicle controller 238 can be connected tothe vehicle's audio system 244, a GPS navigational unit 246, thevehicle's steering column lock 248, the vehicle's security alarm system250 and/or a satellite support system 252. The vehicle's audio system244, for example, can be utilized to generate an audible alarm notifyingthe driver 234 to take a measurement, providing the user with a warningif their levels are out of range, etc. The vehicle's security alarmsystem 250, in turn, can be used to provide other individuals with anindication that the driver 234 may require assistance. For example, thevehicle security alarm system 250 may cause the emergency lights on thevehicle to automatically flash if the driver's glucose levels fallwithin a certain range. In those vehicles equipped with a satellitesupport system 252, such information could also be relayed to anoperator in order to provide the operator with more detailed informationon what emergency services to dispatch.

In those vehicles equipped with a GPS unit 246, the monitoring device 10may be further used in conjunction with the vehicle's GPS mappingsoftware to provide the driver 234 with directions to the closestmedical supply store for purchasing needed supplies, the location of theclosest emergency facility, etc. In some embodiments, the GPS mappingsoftware may also be used to notify the driver 234 where to redeem areward or incentive that has or will be earned.

The monitoring device 10 may use its internal clock to determine thelast time a measurement was taken, which can then be transmitted to thevehicle 240 as a part of the compliance data 236 and compared againstthe vehicle's own internal clock. Comparison of the monitoring deviceinternal clock with the vehicle clock can be accomplished in a mannersimilar to that described above with respect to FIG. 7, by comparing theuser input against reward criteria within the reward circuitry todetermine the accuracy of the time measurements. The monitoring device10 can be programmed to permit the driver 234 to operate the vehicleonly if a reading has been obtained within a certain period of time. Forexample, the monitoring device can be programmed to only permit thedriver 234 to operate the vehicle 240 if a glucose level reading hasbeen obtained within the past four hours, within the past 2 hours, orother such time interval.

Having thus described several embodiments of the present invention,those of skill in the art will readily appreciate that other embodimentsmay be made and used which fall within the scope of the claims attachedhereto. It will be understood that this disclosure is, in many respects,only illustrative. Changes can be made with respect to various elementsdescribed herein without exceeding the scope of the invention.

1. A method of providing individuals with a reward or incentive formonitoring one or more medical parameters, the method comprising thesteps of: providing a health monitoring device adapted to sense one ormore medical parameters relating to a user's health, the healthmonitoring device including reward circuitry adapted to run an algorithmor routine for encouraging the monitoring of one or more medicalparameters; receiving reward criteria data into the health monitoringdevice; comparing the reward criteria data against one or more medicalparameters obtained by the health monitoring device; determining whetherone or more goals of the reward criteria data have been satisfied;providing a reward indicator notifying the user when at least one ofsaid one or more goals have been achieved; prompting the user to redeemone or more rewards or incentives based at least in part on theircompliance with said one or more goals; and downloading the reward orincentive into a storage memory of the health monitoring device and/ortransmitting the reward or incentive to one or more other devices. 2.The method of claim 1, wherein said step of receiving reward criteriadata includes the step of downloading the reward criteria from aweb-site and/or other remote device in communication with the healthmonitoring device.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein said step ofcomparing the reward criteria data against one or more medicalparameters includes the step of using an internal clock of themonitoring device to determine a date and/or time associated with eachobtained medical parameter.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein said stepof determining whether one or more goals of the reward criteria datahave been satisfied includes the step of comparing a date and time stampassociated with each medical parameter with time and date data from anexternal clock source.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein said step ofproviding a reward status indicator includes the step of outputting avisual alert on a display screen.
 6. The method of claim 5, wherein saidhealth monitoring device is adapted to alternate between displaying thevisual alert and one or more medical parameters on the same displayscreen.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein said step of providing areward status indicator includes the step of illuminating one or morelights on the health monitoring device.
 8. The method of claim 7,wherein said step of illuminating one or more lights on the healthmonitoring device includes: illuminating a first array of lights on thehealth monitoring device adapted to provide feedback on the user'scompliance with one or more goals of the reward criteria; andilluminating a second array of lights on the health monitoring deviceadapted to provide feedback on any rewards or incentives that have orwill be earned based at least in part on based on the user's compliancewith said one or more goals.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein said stepof illuminating the first array of lights on the health monitoringdevice includes the steps of: illuminating a first light indicating whenthe user is in full compliance with said one or more goals; andilluminating one or more other lights indicating when the user is not incompliance with said one or more goals.
 10. The method of claim 7,wherein said step of illuminating one or more lights on the healthmonitoring device includes the step of altering the color and/or blinkrate of at least one of said lights.
 11. The method of claim 1, whereinsaid step of providing a reward status indicator includes the step ofoutputting an audible alarm through a speaker.
 12. The method of claim11, further including the step of adjusting the pitch and/or loudness ofthe audible alarm based at least in part on the user's compliance withsaid one or more goals.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein said step ofproviding a reward status indicator includes the step of providing theuser with tactile feedback with a vibration element.
 14. The method ofclaim 1, wherein said step of prompting the user to redeem one or morerewards or incentives includes the step of outputting a message on adisplay screen informing the user that a reward or incentive has beenearned along with instructions on how to redeem the reward or incentive.15. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of prompting theuser to clear the reward or incentive from memory.
 16. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising the step of automatically erasing the rewardor incentive from memory.
 17. The method of claim 1, further comprisingthe step of outputting one or more motivational and/or advertisingmessages on a display screen based at least in part on the user'scompliance with said one or more goals.
 18. A system for encouraging themonitoring of one or more medical parameters by a user, the systemcomprising: a health monitoring device adapted to sense one or moremedical parameters relating to a user's health, the health monitoringdevice including reward circuitry adapted to run an algorithm or routinefor encouraging the monitoring of said one or more medical parameters;and at least one remote device in communication with the healthmonitoring device.
 19. The system of claim 18, wherein said at least oneremote device includes the computer system of a remote entity.
 20. Thesystem of claim 19, wherein said remote entity is a pharmacy or medicalsupply store.
 21. The system of claim 18, wherein said at least oneremote device is a vehicle controller.
 22. The system of claim 18,wherein said at least one remote device includes a web-site.
 23. Thesystem of claim 18, wherein said at least one remote device includes oneor more monitoring devices.
 24. The system of claim 18, wherein said atleast one remote device is in communication with the health monitoringdevice via a wired or wireless connection.
 25. The system of claim 18,wherein said at least one remote device is in communication with thehealth monitoring device via an Internet or intranet connection.
 26. Thesystem of claim 18, wherein said at least one remote device includes areward database containing one or more rewards or incentives.
 27. Thesystem of claim 26, wherein said reward database includes one or moreprogrammed reward criteria.
 28. The system of claim 18, wherein thehealth monitoring device is adapted to transmit compliance data to theat least one remote device, the compliance data including one or morereadings obtained from the health monitoring device.
 29. The system ofclaim 28, wherein said at least one remote device is adapted to transmitone or more reward codes to the health monitoring device based on saidcompliance data.
 30. A health monitoring device, comprising: medicalcircuitry adapted to sense one or more medical parameters; rewardcircuitry including a reward algorithm or routine for encouraging themonitoring of said one or more medical parameters; a communicationsinterface for transmitting and/or receiving reward data and/or medicaldata back and forth between the health monitoring device and one or moreremote devices in communication with the health monitoring device; atleast one display panel including a display screen for displaying rewarddata; and a user interface.
 31. The health monitoring device of claim30, further including a storage memory adapted to store one or moresensed medical parameters along with a date and time stamp correspondingto each sensed medical parameter.
 32. The health monitoring device ofclaim 30, wherein the reward circuitry includes a reward code databasecontaining one or more programmed reward codes.
 33. The healthmonitoring device of claim 30, wherein the reward circuitry includes areward criteria database containing one or more programmed goals. 34.The health monitoring device of claim 33, wherein the reward algorithmor routine is adapted to formulate a reward or incentive based at leastin part on the user's compliance with said one or more programmed goals.35. The health monitoring device of claim 33, wherein the healthmonitoring device further includes: a first array of light sourcesadapted to provide feedback on the user's compliance with said one ormore programmed goals; and a second array of light sources adapted toprovide the user with feedback on any rewards or incentives that have orwill be earned based on the user's compliance with said one or moreprogrammed goals.
 36. The health monitoring device of claim 35, furthercomprising a means for determining the operational status of each lightsource within the first and/or second array of light sources.
 37. Thehealth monitoring device of claim 30, wherein the reward circuitry isoptically isolated from the medical circuitry.
 38. The health monitoringdevice of claim 30, wherein the health monitoring device furtherincludes a motivation and/or advertising message database containing oneor more motivational and/or advertising messages.
 39. The healthmonitoring device of claim 38, further comprising an interface forprogramming the motivational and/or advertising messages within saidmotivation and/or advertising message database.
 40. The healthmonitoring device of claim 30, wherein the health monitoring device is ablood glucose meter.